Plan Before You Plant
It is critically important to plan before you plant. Think ... before you install that driveway or swimming pool. Research the multitude of options that are available to you, the consumer. You may be wondering ...

• Where do I start? What do I like?
• What do I want to do in my landscape / yard / garden?
• What about water? Do I need an irrigation system I may not be able to use?
• What is xeriscape? Doesn't everything end up looking like a desert?
• Who do I call first?

A landscape architect or consultant can help you answer all of these questions ... and save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Compile a list of landscape designers or residential landscape architects and call each of them for a short phone interview. Most are happy to oblige at no charge. Learn as much as you can. The designer will provide you with some ideas to consider and questions to think about before you meet in person. Finally, pick one or two that you feel are knowledgeable and easy to communicate with and set up an onsite consultation at your property. A site visit helps the landscape professional formulate questions that are specific to your landscape.

For help, call Christopher Ross at (727)-480-0987 or email at toffer@tampabay.rr.com